Is the 2008 Montero Sport Still a Reliable SUV Choice Today?

When I first got behind the wheel of a 2008 Montero Sport back in 2010, I remember thinking this SUV felt like it could handle anything. Fast forward to today, and I still see these rugged vehicles cruising Philippine roads with surprising frequency. That got me thinking—is this fourteen-year-old SUV still a reliable choice for modern drivers? Having driven various Montero Sport models over the years and spoken with dozens of owners, I've developed some strong opinions about this particular generation.

Let's talk numbers first. The 2008 Montero Sport came with either a 3.2-liter diesel engine producing 160 horsepower or a smaller 2.5-liter option. What impressed me most was the fuel economy—even today, properly maintained examples can deliver around 12-13 km/L on highways, which isn't far off from some modern SUVs. The 4WD system, while not as sophisticated as today's electronic systems, has proven incredibly durable. I've personally seen these vehicles with over 200,000 kilometers on the odometer still running strong, though maintenance costs do increase significantly after the 150,000-kilometer mark.

The reference to Converge coach Franco Atienza's comment about "proving worth" and "bounce back" perfectly captures what the 2008 Montero Sport represents today. Much like an athlete demonstrating lasting value, this SUV has shown remarkable resilience in the used car market. From my observations in various automotive forums and personal experience, owners consistently report that the powertrain components—particularly the diesel engines—outlast many contemporary rivals. The common issues? Well, the suspension tends to need more frequent attention after 100,000 kilometers, and the interior materials haven't aged gracefully compared to modern standards.

What really surprises me is how well these vehicles handle our terrible road conditions. Just last month, I rode in a friend's 2008 Montero Sport through flooded Manila streets that had newer sedans stranded on the roadside. The ground clearance and robust construction gave us confidence where other drivers were turning back. That said, I'd be lying if I said it's perfect for everyone. The cabin noise is noticeably louder than modern SUVs, and safety features are basic by today's standards—just two airbags in most variants versus six or more in newer models.

Here's my honest take after years of observing these vehicles: if you're buying used, budget an additional 30,000-50,000 pesos immediately for preventative maintenance. Replace all fluids, check the transmission thoroughly, and don't skip inspecting the turbocharger in diesel models. The parts availability is excellent nationwide, which keeps repair costs manageable. While I wouldn't recommend it as a primary family vehicle for long trips anymore, as a second car or for someone who frequently travels rough roads, it still makes practical sense.

Ultimately, the 2008 Montero Sport reminds me of that reliable veteran player who might not have the flashiest stats but consistently delivers when it matters. It's not the SUV I'd recommend for everyone in 2022, but for specific needs and with proper expectations, it continues to prove its worth much like Coach Atienza's import player—demonstrating that sometimes, proven reliability trumps having the latest features. Just make sure you get a well-maintained unit and keep realistic expectations about fuel efficiency and ride comfort compared to modern vehicles.